Brett Raguse, the ALP Federal Candidate for Forde, said that Federal election later this year will be decided over issues that effect all families – from unfair workplace laws; lack of housing affordability and availability; lack of affordable child care places; lack of medical and dental care services; lack of aged care facilities; and lack of basic support for our youth.

“Many people I have met while ‘door knocking’ and at ‘road side stalls’ have expressed their concerns about most of these issues and are determined to make a change when they vote later his year.

“However recent changes by the Howard government have meant that for the first time in almost 25 years many residents may be ineligible to vote even if they have been previously on the roll”, said Mr Raguse.

According to Mr Raguse the new laws mean:

• The electoral roll will close on the day the election writs are issued - which can be as soon as the election is called; and
• Those already on the roll will now get only three days to update their details.

He further pointed out that in previous years first time voters had 7 days to enrol after the election writs were issued and in Forde alone, the changes could have impacted 2575 voters at the last election.

“Under these new laws, by the time a young person gets home from university or work and finds out an election has been called – the electoral roll will be closed.

“Even for those already on the roll, three days is not a lot of time to update your details if you are studying or working full time.

“However I am determined to help as many new voters and new residents in the area as possible by making my Campaign Office available to help get enrolment details up to date.

“Anyone with concerns that they may not be enrolled to vote can call my office on 38072959 and speak to my volunteer staff about getting on the roll; or as an existing voter having your details updated before an election is called”, said Mr Raguse.